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KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Serhii Hryhoriev, a Ukrainian soldier, repeatedly reassured his wife and two daughters with the phrase, “Everything will be all right,” during brief, precious phone calls from the front lines. This simple promise offered solace amidst the chaos of war. Tragically, that promise proved hollow, as Hryhoriev became one of the growing number of Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) who have died in Russian custody. His case, and those of others, are now shedding light on a disturbing and systematic pattern of brutality and torture inflicted upon captured Ukrainian soldiers.

Recent autopsies, meticulously conducted on the bodies of deceased Ukrainian POWs returned from Russian prisons, paint a horrifying picture. Independent investigations, relying on forensic evidence and testimonies from former detainees, suggest a deliberate and widespread policy of abuse designed to inflict pain, extract information, and demoralize Ukrainian resistance. The findings are fueling international condemnation and calls for accountability.

Patterns of Abuse Emerge

The autopsies reveal a consistent array of injuries, far beyond what could be attributed to natural causes or battlefield wounds. These include severe beatings, burns, electric shocks, and starvation. In many cases, victims showed signs of prolonged torture, indicating that the abuse wasn't isolated incidents but rather a sustained campaign. Medical neglect appears to be a common factor, with prisoners denied adequate healthcare, even for life-threatening conditions.

“We’re seeing a clear pattern,” stated Dmytro Lubinets, Ukraine’s Commissioner for Human Rights, during a recent press conference. “These aren’t random acts of cruelty. This is a systematic approach to breaking the spirit and body of our soldiers. The evidence points to a deliberate policy implemented by the Russian authorities.”

The Olenivka Prison Massacre: A Case Study

The situation reached a particularly shocking nadir with the Olenivka prison massacre in July 2022. Dozens of Ukrainian POWs died in an explosion within the facility. Russia blamed Ukraine, alleging a Ukrainian strike with HIMARS rockets, while Ukraine insists Russia was responsible, using thermobaric weapons to cover up their own mistreatment and executions. The incident remains heavily disputed, but the sheer number of casualties underscores the precariousness of the situation for Ukrainian POWs in Russian hands.

International Response and Concerns

The revelations of systematic abuse have prompted strong reactions from international organizations and governments. The United Nations Human Rights Office has called for an independent investigation into the treatment of Ukrainian POWs. Numerous countries have condemned Russia’s actions and demanded accountability for those responsible. However, securing access to Russian prisons and conducting impartial investigations remains a significant challenge.

The Psychological Toll

Beyond the physical injuries, the psychological trauma inflicted on Ukrainian POWs is immense. Former detainees have described horrific conditions, including isolation, sleep deprivation, and psychological manipulation. The constant threat of violence and the uncertainty of their fate have taken a devastating toll on their mental health. Even those who have been released face a long and difficult road to recovery.

Seeking Justice and Accountability

Ukraine is actively collecting evidence of Russian war crimes, including the treatment of POWs, with the aim of bringing perpetrators to justice. The International Criminal Court (ICC) has launched an investigation into alleged war crimes committed in Ukraine, and the issue of POW treatment is a key focus. The families of the victims deserve answers and justice, and the international community must hold those responsible accountable for their actions. The fate of Serhii Hryhoriev and countless others serves as a stark reminder of the brutal realities of war and the urgent need to protect the rights of prisoners of war.